There are two birthstones for March. The famous aquamarine and the lessor known Bloodstone or Heliotrope. Read more about Aquamarine here. The term heliotrope comes from the Greek helios (sun) and trepein (to turn) as bloodstone was once believed to influence the movement or appearance of the sun when placed in water. The name bloodstone is based on its appearance of red markings caused by iron oxide (hematite) inclusions dispersed within a dark green chalcedony base.
Bloodstone Properties
Bloodstone, the March birthstone is a chalcedony and comes from the quartz family. Composed primarily of silicon dioxide (SiO₂), the green colour comes from chlorite or amphibole (hydrous double chain silicate) minerals and the red comes from iron oxide (hematite) inclusions. It has a hardness of 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale and a specific Gravity: 2.58–2.64. The gemstone is rarely faceted and is preferred in its cabochon form. It is also carved to create intaglios for seals, amulets and talismans.
Bloodstone deposits can be found in deposits in the Deccan Plateau in India, Brazil, Australia and China.
Lore
In Classical Greece and Rome, warriors believed that the stone could stop bleeding and grant courage in battle. Medieval lapidaries described it as a stone capable of strengthening the body and sharpening resolve. According to AGS, its called the “Martyr’s Stone,” associating the red inclusions with drops of Christ’s blood fallen upon green jasper at the Crucifixion.
Bloodstone jewellery
For centuries, the finest bloodstones have come from India. However, they are uncommon in Indian jewellery. Apart from being set into gemstones pendants or beaded bracelets either for healing or tourist trade, I haven’t seen any traditional jewellery made with them. But I feel that there the stone has a lot of potential. They can be set in silver or dull yellow gold to create beautiful earrings, bracelets and necklaces. They can also be combined with aquamarine as indicated by an AI generated image below, if you want to make a birthstone necklace combining both gemstones. Go for pale blue aquamarines as indicated, so that they look like diamonds.
Gemstone and Jewellery care
Depending on the metal used, clean it gently by wiping with a soft soft. If you have to wash it, then use lukewarm water, mild soap, and a soft cloth to remove any residue. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals or acids even if it is to remove the tarnish on silver. Keep the stones wrapped in fabric or in a soft padded box to avoid being scratched by other jewellery.
Across cultures, bloodstone has consistently occupied the space between body, belief, and protection. As a March birthstone, As a March birthstone, bloodstone represents courage, vitality, protection and renewal. Jewellery made with it, is not merely decorative, but talismanic.
I hope you find it interesting.
Cheers
What do you think?